What You Didn’t Know: There are 2 Sub-types of Narcissistic Personality Disorder

What You Didn’t Know: There are 2 Sub-types of Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a mental disorder in which the person has an inflated sense of self-importance and a deep need for admiration. Narcissism has been misconstrued as being the disorder as well, but narcissism is a spectrum that ranges from healthy to unhealthy. Those with healthy narcissism are confident in themselves and their capabilities, care about their appearance and health, and actively engage in self-love. Unhealthy forms of narcissism, such as constantly outdoing others in a negative way, believing one is superior to others, and using people to achieve fame, status, recognition, etc., are signs of NPD. Beyond these healthy and unhealthy forms, there are 2 sub-types of NPD: grandiose and vulnerable NPD.

Grandiose NPD:

The most easily recognizable form of NPD, grandiose NPD involves self-enhancing behaviors that are very openly publicized. A person with this sub-type is likely to believe they are invincible, as they are often in denial of their weaknesses and tend to focus more on an unrealistic, overtly fantasized view of themselves. Many people with this sub-type do not care how their significant other sees them, and they appear to have no shame or hesitancy in their actions. Additionally, a person with this sub-type may become aggressive, manipulative, exploitative and anti-social in order to achieve their self-fulfilling goals.

Vulnerable NPD

A person with this sub-type experiences dysfunction due to a lack of healthy self-esteem; they indulge in fantasies related to self-idolization, but experience chaos as their moods shift between feelings of superiority and shame. In general, those with this type of disorder are more sensitive and are often viewed as over-compensating for their low self-esteem. Causes of this sub-type could be dated back to childhood, with many of this type having experienced abuse, neglect, or a dismissive style of parent-child attachment growing up. Overall, people with this type care about how others view them and have difficulty with rejection or suggestions of ways they could change.

If you or a loved one is showing signs of NPD, speak with a professional at a reputable treatment center today. Treatment is available, and recovery is possible.

Avalon Malibu is a world-renowned, California state-licensed mental health and substance abuse recovery center. If you are ready to seek treatment to develop the tools you need to overcome life’s obstacles and be on the road towards happiness, health, and well-being, call us today at 855-668-9094 for a consultation.It’s never too late, and there are people here ready to help you.